Tara Lala is the author of the new children's picture book Luella's Library. Her other books include Twincesses. She is a student at the University of Southern California.
Q: How did you choose the adventures your characters would have in Luella's Library?
A: Growing up, my favorite kinds of adventures to read about were the ones in fairytale settings. They were always so magical and detailed, and I would discover something new each time I read the book.
I want kids to experience Luella’s Library in the same way, which is why I also chose fantasy settings. I wanted a mix of several different adventures so that kids could understand that one book can take you to several different places.
In addition, I want it to appeal to both boys and girls, so I have a variety of different locations that the characters visit, ranging from a land with fairies to a sea of pirates.
Q: What do you think Francesca Pesci’s illustrations add to the book?
A: When I was a kid, the books that would grab my attention were the books that were vibrantly illustrated. Especially now, where kids are attracted—and even addicted—to the bright colors and quick pacing of an app, it’s important to replicate that in a book.
So, Francesca did an excellent job making the pictures eye-catching for kids, adding details throughout to draw them back in and keep them looking for more in her intricate art.
Q: What do you hope kids take away from the story?
A: I hope kids begin to fall in love with reading again and take time to use their imaginations again. If they don’t allow reading to expand their minds when they’re young, who knows what the future might hold for them… will they be able to think outside the box? It’s important to help nurture and grow their minds now, before it’s too late.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: I am currently a student at the University of Southern California and have been taking a lot of screenwriting classes, which is a newfound interest. I am currently working on a princess fantasy-romance screenplay for family audiences.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: I am a 21-year-old author with four other books. My first three books, Twincesses, Tails from Down Under, and An Alani Adventure, are fantasy chapter books for ages 8-12. My fourth book, Minty the Mischievous Elf, is a Christmas picture book for ages 3-8.
All of my books can be purchased through Amazon or Barnes & Noble, and more information can be found on my Instagram, at @taralalaofficial!
--Interview with Deborah Kalb. This Q&A was conducted in partnership with Expound Publicity. Enter this giveaway for a chance to win a complete set of Tara Lala's magical books, including Luella's Library!
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